Name of the Condition

• Common Name: Loose Body in Knee
• Medical Term: Intra-articular Loose Body, Right Knee
• ICD Code: M23.41

Summary

Loose body in the knee refers to fragments of cartilage, bone, or other tissue that have detached and float within the joint space. This condition can lead to discomfort and restricted movement in the right knee.

Causes

• Injury or trauma to the knee
• Degenerative joint conditions such as osteoarthritis
• Cartilage wear and tear from repetitive stress on the knee
• Previous knee surgery or conditions such as osteochondritis dissecans

Risk Factors

• Older age increases the likelihood of degenerative changes
• History of knee injuries or surgeries
• High-impact sports participation

Symptoms

• Knee pain or ache that worsens with activity
• Swelling or inflammation of the joint
• Locking or catching sensation in the knee
• Reduced range of motion in the knee

Diagnosis

• Physical examination by a healthcare provider
• Imaging tests such as X-ray, MRI, or CT scan to identify loose bodies within the knee joint

Treatment Options

• Non-Surgical Approaches: Rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy to alleviate symptoms
• Surgical Treatment: Arthroscopy to remove loose bodies and improve knee function, particularly if symptoms are severe or persistent

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Many individuals experience relief from symptoms after treatment, especially with successful removal of loose bodies.
• Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor the knee's recovery and prevent recurrence.

Complications

• Persistent pain and discomfort if untreated
• Increased risk of further joint damage
• Development of osteoarthritis over time

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Regular low-impact exercise to maintain joint mobility and strength
• Weight management to reduce stress on the knees
• Use protective gear during sports to minimize injury risk

When to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent knee pain or swelling
• Locking or inability to move the knee properly
• Sudden worsening of symptoms such as severe pain or decreased mobility

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS): aaos.org
• Arthritis Foundation: arthritis.org

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure correct identification of laterality (right knee) as the ICD code M23.41 specifically indicates this
• Verify any accompanying diagnoses that may require additional coding (e.g., osteoarthritis)
• Avoid coding errors by double-checking the specific location (knee) and side (right) from the medical documentation